Stockings & Gloves

Stockings are one of those finishing touches that can elevate an entire outfit. Whether you're pairing them with a basque and suspenders for a classic look or just pulling on a pair of hold-ups under a skirt for a confidence boost, they add something that bare legs or regular tights simply don't. We stock gloves too, from opera-length satin to short lace, for when you want to complete the picture from head to toe.

Stockings are individual leg coverings that stop at the thigh. They need something to hold them up, either suspender clips from a basque or a separate suspender belt. Hold-ups are similar but have a silicone-lined band at the top that grips your thigh and stays up on its own without suspenders. Tights cover both legs and the waist in a single piece, and we stock sheer, fishnet, and patterned options.

Gloves in our range are mostly the long, dramatic kind. Satin opera gloves that reach past the elbow, lace gloves for a vintage feel, and fishnet gloves for an edgier look. They're accessories rather than necessities, but they add a lot of drama to a lingerie outfit.

Stockings look best with suspenders or a basque that has built-in clips. The traditional way to wear them is with the suspender straps under your knickers so that you can use the bathroom without undoing everything. If you're wearing hold-ups, make sure your thighs are clean and dry before putting them on, because the silicone band doesn't grip well on moisturised or sweaty skin.

Gloves work with bodies, chemises, or costumes. They also look surprisingly good on their own with nothing else, if you're going for a minimalist-but-dramatic bedroom look.

Hand wash stockings in cool water every time. They're far too delicate for a machine, even in a mesh bag. Use a gentle detergent, rinse thoroughly, and lay flat on a towel to dry. Never wring them because twisting damages the fibres and can cause runs. The same goes for tights. Gloves depend on the material. Satin can be hand washed. Lace should be hand washed very gently. Faux leather or PVC gloves just need a wipe down.

Stockings do something for your legs that nothing else quite manages. The sheer fabric smooths and evens out skin tone, adds a subtle sheen, and makes your legs look longer and more defined. There's also the sensory side. The feel of stockings against your skin and the knowledge that you're wearing them adds a private confidence boost that translates into how you carry yourself. And for a partner, the visual of stocking tops, suspenders, and a glimpse of bare thigh above is one of the most timeless and appealing looks in lingerie.

Size matters with stockings. Too small and they'll roll down and feel tight. Too large and they'll wrinkle and sag. Most brands size by height and weight, so check the chart. If you're between sizes, go up. For hold-ups, thigh measurement is crucial. If your thighs are on the slimmer side, look for hold-ups with a narrow silicone band. Wider thighs generally do better with a wider band that distributes the grip.

Denier tells you about opacity. 10 to 15 denier is very sheer and barely there. 20 to 30 denier is the classic slightly-tinted look. 40+ denier is opaque and covers more. Fishnet is its own thing and doesn't follow denier ratings.

Cheap stockings ladder easily and the elastic in hold-up bands gives out quickly. A premium pair from a brand like Leg Avenue uses stronger yarn that resists runs better and silicone bands that actually stay up for more than an hour. The difference between a £5 pair and a £12 pair is noticeable from the moment you put them on. Premium stockings feel smoother, look more even, and last significantly longer. For regular wearers, it's genuinely more economical to buy quality because you replace them less often. For a one-off occasion, budget options are perfectly fine.